Kahun Danda Hill | Pokhara

Information

Landmark: Kahun Danda Hill
City: Pokhara
Country: Nepal
Continent: Asia

Kahun Danda Hill, Pokhara, Nepal, Asia

Kahun Danda (Kahun Hill) is a prominent hilltop viewpoint located northeast of the Pokhara Valley at an altitude of approximately 1,444 meters. It serves as a quieter, less commercialized alternative to Sarangkot for sunrise and Himalayan observation.

Visual Characteristics

The summit is marked by the Kahun Dharahara, a white cylindrical view tower. From this vantage point, visitors have a 360-degree view that includes the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Mount Machhapuchhre to the north, and an expansive aerial view of the Pokhara city and the newly built Pokhara International Airport to the south. The landscape consists of lush subtropical forests and traditional terraced farmlands.

Location & Access Logistics

The hill is situated approximately 7km northeast of the Mahendra Pool downtown area.

Road: A winding, partially paved road leads to the summit. It takes about 30–40 minutes to drive from the Lakeside district via taxi or private vehicle.

Hiking: A popular day-hiking destination. The trail typically starts near the Yellow Bridge (Seti Powerhouse) or the Phulbari army barracks. The ascent takes approximately 2 to 3 hours of uphill trekking through local villages and rhododendron forests.

Entrance Fee: A nominal fee of approximately NPR 20 is required to climb the view tower.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The viewpoint has a long history as a local lookout. The current Kahun Dharahara (view tower) was established in 1969 (2026 B.S.). Historically, the area was a village development committee (VDC) before being annexed into the Pokhara Metropolitan City. Geologically, it is part of the Mahabharat Range (Lesser Himalayas).

Key Highlights & Activities

Sunrise and Sunset: Known for providing a unique perspective of the sun hitting the eastern faces of the Annapurna massif.

Dharmakaya Buddha Mandala: A massive project currently under development to construct a large Buddha statue and a religious complex on the hill to promote spiritual tourism.

Picnicking: Due to its proximity to the city and serene atmosphere, it is a frequent weekend spot for local residents.

Birdwatching: The surrounding forests are home to various indigenous bird species, making it a target for nature enthusiasts.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Infrastructure at the summit includes the view tower, a small Shiva temple, and several local tea houses. In recent years, more developed amenities have appeared, including the Kahun Danda Resort, which provides overnight accommodation, a restaurant, and a bar. 4G cellular signal is strong throughout the ridge.

Best Time to Visit

The peak months for clear visibility are October to November and March to May. Early morning visits (arriving by 05:45) are recommended for sunrise. Unlike Sarangkot, Kahun Danda remains relatively peaceful even during peak tourist seasons.